"Long Beach official seeks airport report"

Sunday, February 9, 2003

Webb seeks airport report
Council: Official says his constituents are worried about land use near
area.
By Jason Gewirtz
The Long Beach (CA) Press-Telegram


LONG BEACH - Citing Long Beach Airport growth as a "touchy' issue with
residents, Councilman Rob Webb on Tuesday will ask for a report detailing
all proposed development and land use related to the complex.

Webb will request updates on the status of several projects at or around the
airport, including proposed development of Skylinks Golf Course, Boeing
property, the Marriott Hotel and National Guard property at the airport.

The report is also expected to update any proposed on- and off- site parking
issues.

"My constituents have been very concerned over the last year over what they
consider sort of a hodgepodge growth that's happening at the airport,' said
Webb, whose 8th District sits in the airport's flight path.

In a background memo to the council, Webb requested a report to be returned
in 30 days "because this is such a touchy issue with my constituents.'

Last week, the council endorsed a proposed settlement to an ongo ing dispute
among several airlines fighting for available flight slots at the airport.
The approval came despite some citizen objections that residents did not
have enough time to review the proposal.

On Feb. 18, the council is expected to hear an appeal on a Planning
Commission approval to allow short-term parking at Veterans Stadium for
airport employees, car rental storage and valet parking. In coming weeks,
the council is also expected to select a firm to conduct an environmental
impact report relating to airport activity.

"Every week we have the issue of parking at the airport and land use
surrounding the airport,' Webb said. Other action

The city's recently adopted strategic plan calls for the city to "ensure
environmental responsibility' when it comes to city purchases.

On Tuesday, the council will consider a procurement policy aimed at
providing details of what such purchases should entail.

A draft of the policy says the city should encourage purchases of products
and services that reduce toxicity, conserve natural resources, materials and
energy, and maximize recycled content.

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